Te Kaaroro Head of Environment & Construction

He angituutanga: The opportunity

Te Kaaroro Nature Precinct is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Environment & Construction to lead the delivery of impactful construction projects that support our mission of connecting people to our taonga and inspiring kaitiakitanga. This pivotal role contributes to the long-term growth and sustainability of the Precinct by creating enriching environments for both animals and people.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning, design, and execution of construction projects that align with the Precinct’s strategic goals.
• Collaborate with internal teams including animal care and education specialists to ensure seamless integration of projects into operations and visitor experiences.
• Implement robust project management, quality control, and reporting processes to meet industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Manage contractors, vendors, and subcontractors, ensuring adherence to specifications, timelines, and budgets.
• Oversee procurement of materials, equipment, and services, ensuring cost-effectiveness and sustainability.
• Monitor budgets and track expenses in collaboration with the Programme Manager.
• Identify and mitigate project risks to ensure successful outcomes.
• Champion environmentally sustainable practices to minimize ecological impact.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations in partnership with H&S leadership.
• Foster strong relationships with stakeholders including council departments, regulatory authorities, and community partners.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of consistent design principles across all capital projects.
• Support team development through mentoring, coaching, and identifying training needs.
• Actively participate in the Precinct’s strategic and business planning processes.
• Deputize for the Precinct Director when required.
• Lead the development and ongoing review of the Zoo’s Master Plan.
• Promote a collaborative, high-performing team culture focused on outcomes and continuous improvement.

About You:

You are a strategic thinker with a strong background in construction project management, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable design. You thrive in collaborative environments and are passionate about contributing to conservation and education through innovative infrastructure.